The best places to see the northern lights

The northern lights are one of nature's most spectacular displays. This celestial light show occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in Earth's atmosphere, creating a spectacular dance of colourful lights across the night sky.

While seeing the aurora borealis requires some planning and a bit of luck – we all have that friend who slogged all the way to Iceland only to be met with a duvet of endless cloud cover – certain destinations tend to have better chances than others.

From Scandi classics to underrated UK spots, here are some of the best places to see the northern lights.

Tromsø, Norway

Dubbed the Gateway to the Arctic, Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. Located 350km (217 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, this charming Norwegian city enjoys excellent aurora viewing opportunities from September to March.

The city also has a fun cultural scene with museums like the Arctic Cathedral and the Polar Museum, while active types can enjoy whale watching, dog sledding and skiing.

A fun fact? Tromsø is home to the world's northernmost brewery, Mack Brewery, which offers tours and tastings.

Iceland

Iceland's unique landscapes of volcanoes, hot springs and glaciers provide a stunning backdrop for the aurora.

The capital, Reykjavik, usually has too much light pollution for optimal viewing, but it's easy to take short trips to darker areas nearby. Kirkjufell, about two hours north, is a reliable choice but you could also try spots such as Lake Kleifarvatn and Garður further south.

While you’re there don’t miss the Land of Ice and Fire’s otherworldly landscapes, including the famous Golden Circle route featuring the Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir hot springs.

In Reykjavik, you can visit the striking Hallgrímskirkja church or ogle the displays at the world’s only Penis Museum.

Shetland Islands, Scotland

Generally, the Shetland Islands have the best chance of seeing the northern lights in the UK. Your best chance of seeing the ‘Mirrie Dancers’, as islanders call them, is between mid-August and April.

While you’re there, explore ancient Norse and Pictish archaeological sites, watch for puffins and other seabirds, or attend the famous Up Helly Aa fire festival in January. And if you want to learn about the islands' rich history and culture, be sure to visit the Shetland Museum and Archives.

Abisko, Sweden

In Swedish Lapland, Abisko is renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution. The Aurora Sky Station, accessible by chairlift, offers one of the world's best vantage points for observing the phenomenon.

Beyond the lights, Abisko National Park is brilliant for hiking and cross-country skiing. Visit the Icehotel for a unique overnight experience, or take a day trip to Kiruna to learn about Sami culture and visit the world's largest underground iron ore mine.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks lies directly under the auroral oval, making it one of the most reliable places to see the northern lights in North America. The city puts on various aurora-viewing tours and even has a research centre dedicated to studying the phenomenon.

When you're not gazing skyward, there's plenty to explore on terra firma. Pan for gold at Gold Dredge 8, visit the Museum of the North to learn about Alaska's natural and cultural history, or take a scenic drive along the Steese Highway.

If you’re there in winter, you can also enjoy dog sledding, ice fishing and soaking in the Chena Hot Springs.

Yellowknife, Canada

The capital of Canada's Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is known for long, clear winter nights and optimal location under the auroral oval. Visitors can enjoy viewing the lights from heated outdoor pods at the Aurora Village or on guided snowmobile tours.

Elsewhere, you can immerse yourself in Indigenous culture at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, try your hand at ice fishing or join a dog sledding expedition across the frozen landscape.

Finnish Lapland

The northernmost region of Finland has numerous opportunities to see the northern lights, with popular spots including Rovaniemi (the official hometown of Santa Claus) and Kakslauttanen, famous for its glass igloos designed for aurora viewing.

Adventure seekers will also have plenty to enjoy, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice karting and ice swimming followed by a traditional sauna. Don’t miss the chance to learn about Sami culture and traditions while you’re here.

Northumberland National Park, England

Designated as a Dark Sky Park, Northumberland occasionally experiences auroral displays during periods of high solar activity.

Its national park is the most remote from large urban areas, the least populated and the least visited – meaning that light pollution is kept to an absolute minimum.

During your days here, why not explore Hadrian's Wall, visit Alnwick Castle (famous as a filming location for Harry Potter), or take a boat trip to the Farne Islands to see puffins and seals?

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

This large national park in the Scottish Highlands has excellent dark sky conditions and has been known to see occasional northern lights sightings.

If the lights don’t show, Britain's largest national park is also great for hiking and mountain biking. You can also visit Blair Castle, go wildlife spotting for red deer and golden eagles, or take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway for scenic Highland views.